War Memorials - Surnames J

Arthur James Jackson was originally named Arthur James Goacher in 1892 (GRO: Dec 1892 Epsom 2a 19) the illegitimate son of Ann Goacher, born in Cowfold, Sussex in 1875.

Ann Goacher, a 19 year old spinster, married Robert Jackson, a 28 year old bachelor, in 1894 in St Mary's Ewell Surrey. Ann's father was named as James Goacher while Robert's was Matthew Jackson, both being labourers.

Arthur's 'burnt' service records tell us he had a brother, Sydney Arthur, and three sisters, Irene, Alice and Mabel, all living at 78, Miles Road, Epsom. However there were no birth or census records found for him supporting this.

From St Mary's baptism records it appears that Arthur's half siblings were, Alice Ann baptised 11 August 1895, Robert John baptised 2 April 1899 and Celia Mabel baptised 16 August 1900. Robert died aged 12 months and was buried 23 March 1900. No record of a Sydney Arthur has been found within the Epsom Ewell area, only a Sidney Guy in 1904.

Ann appears on the 1881 census living with her parents James and Ann Goacher at Tottington Sands Upper Beeding Sussex. (Surname has been mis transcribed as Goatcher).

In the 1891 census before Arthur was born, his grandparents James and Ann Goacher appear as living at Longdown Cottages Reigate Road Ewell with their daughter Mabel Rose. James is recorded as being a 46 carter from Ashurst Sussex, his wife Ann as a 42 year old born in Cowfold, Sussex and their 4 year old daughter as being born in Cheam. There were three boarders living with them. Arthur's mother Ann, aged 16, was living with her maternal grandparents William and Ann Woolvin at Gratwick Cottages Henfield Road Cowfold Sussex.

Later in the 1901 census Arthur's grandmother Ann, now aged 54 and a widow whose occupation was a Monthly Nurse, appears to be living with Arthur James Goacher, aged 8, and five boarders at 34 East Street Epsom. Arthur is recorded as being her son, not grandson. Meanwhile Ann and Robert Jackson were living at 'Gibraltar' Ewell with Arthur's half siblings Alice 7, Irene 5 and Mabel 6 months, plus one lodger.

On 15 February 1910, Arthur signed on in Kingston, as a regular soldier with the East Surrey Regiment, and stated that he had previously served as a Territorial soldier in the 5th Battalion East Surrey Regiment. He gave his age as 18 years and 3 months, but he would only have been 17 years and 3 months. He was 5 feet 6½ inches tall, weighed 119 lbs, had a fresh complexion, dark blue eyes, fair hair, and a chest measurement of 34½ inches with an expansion of 2½ inches. He gave his occupation as shop assistant, although on another of his army forms he is credited with being an 'oilman'. The remarks space in the Surrey Recruitment Register has the entry 'J.N. Cheal 84 Miles Road'. Could this have been where he worked? His parents lived at 78, Miles Road. Arthur's religion was Church of England.

It seems Arthur liked tattoos on his arms, he had a horse shoe crossed by a whip, an anchor, flag, tombstone, heart, 9 dots in the form of a square, 2 dots on the back of his left hand, ring marks on all fingers of left hand and a cross on his right wrist. He had perfect vision scoring 6/6 for each eye, and a pulse rate of 90. He was described as smart, clean and intelligent, with good physical development.

Brief timetable of Arthur's service:

Kingston-Upon-Thames,Surrey	15 February 1910 to 16 June 1910
Plymouth,Devon	17 June 1910 to 27 September 1910
Kinsale,Ireland	28 September 1910 to 29 September 1912
Dublin, Ireland	30 September 1912 to 12 November 1912
India	13 November 1912 to 15 November 1914
Transport ship Malda	16 November 1914 to 22 December 1914
Devonport	23 December 1914 to 23 December 1914
Winchester, Hampshire	24 December 1914 to 18 January 1915
Southampton, Hampshire	18 January 1915 to 18 January 1915
Transport ship Maidan	18 January 1915 to 19 January 1915
Le Havre, France	19 January 1915
Killed in Action St Eloi trenches	1 April 1915

Arthur was generally a good soldier the following is a list of highs and lows:

     5 May 1910, awarded a 3rd class certificate of education
     9 November 1911, admitted hospital, hernia
     10 October 1912, passed a course at Longmoor for mounted infantry
     5 May 1913, granted proficiency pay
     15 April 1913, classified as a marksman
     25 April 1913, Lance Corporal
     26 December 1913, reprimanded and forfeited 1 good conduct badge for being drunk and improperly dressed.
     21 January 1914, reprimanded for
                              i. Not complying with an order,
                              ii. Stating a falsehood to a senior NCO
     18 April 1914, reprimanded for being absent from school
     2 May 1914, classified as a first class shot
     16 February 1915, acting Sergeant

Arthur was killed on 1 April 1915 whilst his Battalion was taking over trenches at St Eloi, from the 3rd Battalion Middlesex Regiment. Probably from shellfire or a sniper. He is buried in Voormezeele Enclosure No3 cemetery, Belgium.

All his personal property was to be sent to Mr. R Jackson, 22 Middle Lane, East Street, Epsom, 20 July 1915.

Arthur was awarded the 1915 Star, British war medal and the Victory medal.

The St Martin's Church Roll of Honour states that "ARTHUR JAMES JACKSON, was in the Army when war was declared and was killed in action in France on the 1st April 1915".

EP SM

Listed on the Ashley Road Memorial, Epsom

Herbert Joseph Jacques was born on 15 July 1880 in Lambeth (GRO reference: Sep 1880 Lambeth 1d 517) to Joseph John and Elizabeth Jane Jacques (nee Line). His parents had married in the September quarter of 1871 in the Marylebone registration district.

Herbert was baptised on 8 August 1880 at St Phillips church, Lambeth.

In the 1881 census the family was living at 1, Allardyce Street, Lambeth. Herbert's father was a 36 year old stonemason. His mother was aged 28, and he had two sisters, Agnes Maud E aged 8 and Edith Mary aged 6.

Herbert's father must have died at some point between the 1881 and 1891 censuses. However, I have been unable to find any record of the death, nor indeed for his father's birth.

The 1891 census shows Herbert's mother as a 38 year old widow, working as a dressmaker and living at 8, Lovegrove Place, Walnut Tree Road, Greenwich. Living with her were 16 year old daughter Edith Mary, and two boarders, 16 year old Robert Graham, a mechanical engineer's apprentice and 24 year old Harriet Harrington, a school mistress. Herbert was recorded living at Collingwood Court Royal Albert Orphan Asylum, Frimley.

By the 1901 census Herbert was working as a stockbroker's clerk, and lived as a lodger with James Walton and his family at 24, Arodene Road, Tulse Hill, London. Herbert's mother and sister Edith both lived at 25, The Grove, Clacton, Essex, and made their living by letting furnished apartments.

The 1911 census shows Herbert as the head of the family, aged 30, single, living at 165, High Street, Egham and working as a 'Refreshments batman and stockbrokers clerk. His mother and sister Edith were living with him, and both worked as refreshment caterers.

Herbert attested in Epsom on 10 December 1915. His attestation papers show him initially assigned as number 3446, LRB (London Rifle Brigade), but this has been crossed out and number 266332, 2/6 Norfolk (Cyclist) Battalion substituted. He was 35 years old, 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighed 160 lbs and had a chest measurement of 38 inches with an expansion of 4 inches. His complexion was dark, his eyes were brown, his hair was dark and he had scar on the left side of his neck. He lived at 'Elvaston', Epsom and worked as a clerk. Herbert was unmarried, and named his mother as his next of kin.

Having attested on 10 December 1915, the next day he was placed on the Army reserve and was not mobilised until 19 October 1916, at Kingston. However, his time with the colours was destined to be short, as on 8 June 1917 he was discharged from the Army due to being medically unfit for service through diabetes. Although his illness was judged to be neither the result of, nor aggravated by military service, he was nevertheless granted a gratuity of £55. His military character was assessed as good, and he was judged to be thoroughly steady and trustworthy.

The following is an extract from the Epsom Advertiser dated 18 January 1918:

EWELL MAN FOUND HANGING IN A WOOD.

     An inquest was held at Leatherhead Institute on Friday afternoon by Mr. D. Brett, deputy coroner, on the death of Herbert Joseph Jacques, age 37, a stock broker's clerk, residing at "Elvaston", Epsom-road, Ewell, who had been missing since December 12th and whose body was found hanging in the woods between Leatherhead and Epsom Downs on Thursday.
     Elizabeth Jane Jacques identified the body as that of her son. She said he left home on December 12th to catch the 9.14 train from Epsom to London. On the following day she heard he had not been to work and inquiries were made in various directions as to his whereabouts and were unsuccessful. He joined the Army in October 1916 being attached to the Norfolk Regiment Cyclists Battalion, and was discharged in December with a good character on account of his being physically unfit. He was suffering from diabetes and neurasthenia. Since his discharge he had been a patient of the Manor War Hospital, Epsom. He was then at home for some time, and recommenced his civil work in September. He had never threatened to take his life. After leaving the hospital he was attended by Dr. Ryecart. On the morning of December 12th he did not seem particularly depressed, but he had complained at times of feeling depressed. He had no financial worries.
     PC Rose said on Thursday morning an anonymous letter was received addressed to the Inspector. It ran, "I was through (sic) the old Green-lane leading from Leatherhead to Epsom Downs, and as I was looking over the hedge I saw a man hanging from a tree. He was quite dead; otherwise I should have cut him down. It is on the right-hand side of the road, where the three steam ploughs are at work." In consequence of that letter witness went at 8 a.m. to Green-lane and made a search of the woods on both sides of the road. In the wood on the right-hand side he saw the body of deceased suspended by a webbed waist belt from a limb of a beech tree 12 feet from the ground. The body had frozen. He was fully dressed, with the exception of the hat. His pince-nez were still on his nose. Witness searched the body and found a daily paper dated December 12th. His overcoat was on the ground about 12 yards from the tree. Amongst other things on the body was his Army discharge, 7s. 8d. in money, season ticket, cigarette case with cigarettes, pocket book, and two bunches of keys. He was wearing his service badge on a lapel of his coat. The body was conveyed to the mortuary.
     The jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of unsound mind," and expressed deep sympathy with the mother. The fees of the jury and that of the mother were given to the Leatherhead Cottage Hospital.

NOTE: Neurasthenia is a psychological disorder characterized by chronic fatigue and weakness, loss of memory, and generalized aches and pains, formerly thought to result from exhaustion of the nervous system. No longer in scientific use.

From the probate entry for Herbert:

JACQUES Herbert Joseph of Elvaston Epsom-road Ewell Surrey was last seen alive on 12 December 1917 and whose dead body was found 10 January 1918 at Highlands Farm Epsom Surrey Administration London 28 January to Elizabeth Jane Jacques widow. Effects £313 19s 3d.

Herbert is buried in plot 186A in St Mary's churchyard, Ewell.

He is not commemorated on any of the Borough's memorials.

BSM

John Warington Jeal was born in 1886 (GRO reference: Mar 1886 Epsom 2a 17) to William and Louisa Eaton Jeal (nee Warington). William and Louisa were married at All Saints Church, Marylebone on 9 June 1867.

John's siblings were:

William Warington	Born 1868	Manchester
Emily Charlotte	Born 1870	Epsom
Joseph Frederic	Born 1872	Epsom
Thomas Daniel	Born 1876	Epsom
Clara Maria	Born 1879	Epsom
Annie Elsie	Born 1882	Epsom
Henry Samuel	Born 1888	Epsom

In 1871 before John was born, they lived in the High Street, Epsom. John's father William was a 28 year old wood dealer. His mother Louisa was 23.

In 1881 they were still living in the High Street but John's father was by then a 36 year old 'Fly Proprietor' employer. Note: A Fly was a light two wheeled carriage drawn by one horse. The proprietor owned the Flys and employed the drivers.

In the 1891 census the family lived at 14 High Street, Epsom. John's father by now aged 46 was still earning his living as a 'Fly Proprietor' employer. In addition to their children they had a boarder staying with them, John E May, a groom.

By the 1901 census the family lived at Ifield near Crawley. John's father was now a 57 year old jobbing carter working on his own behalf. His mother Louisa Eaton Jeal was 52. She died 7 years later aged 61, and was buried on 28 November 1908 in plot A528, Epsom cemetery. John's father died in 1917 aged 74 and was buried in the same plot on 3 February 1917.

By 1911 John was living with his 72 year old aunt Annie Little and his 30 year old sister Clara Maria at 79 Hook Road, Epsom, and he was working as a grocer's assistant.

John attested in Kingston on 12 July 1915 and joined the Royal Field Artillery. He was 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighed 140lbs and had a chest measurement of 36 inches with an expansion of 4 inches. He was a grocer's assistant and lived at 79, Hook Road, Epsom. He went to France on 27 November 1915.

John served with D Battery, 173rd Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, which was part of the 36th Division. He died of wounds on 8 October 1918, most probably from shell fire, and is buried in plot XXX. B. 2. Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium.

He was awarded the 1915 star, British war medal and the Victory medal.

The St Martin's Church Roll of Honour states that "JOHN WARINGTON JEAL, died in France of wounds on the 8th October 1918."

SM EP

12th Royal Lancers. Died of wounds at Hazebrouck, Belgium on 17 May 1915. (Listed on the Ashley Road Memorial, Epsom).

(Listed on the Horton Hospital Staff Memorial and buried PYLE St James Churchyard BRIDGEEND).

R.N., H.M.S.Exe. Drowned when ship was sunk on 27 March 1918. Listed on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Hants. Aged 32 years. Son of Mr. and Mrs. William Jenkins, Epsom. (Listed on the Ashley Road, Epsom and the St. Martin's, Epsom Memorials).

Arthur Harwood Addey Jibb was born in 1889 (GRO reference: Sep 1889 Greenwich 1d 993) to Charles Henry Addey and Clara Maude Jibb (nee Harwood). Birth records and the Surrey recruitment entry (24 September 1914) for Arthur show the Addey and Jibb not to be hyphenated, yet his marriage entry (March 1911) is hyphenated. He is Jibb on the Long Grove memorial and in an Epsom Advertiser article dated 3 May 1918. But Addey-Jibb on page 5320 of the Supplement to the London Gazette dated 29 May 1918.

The 1891 census shows the family Jibb, living at 8 Brindley Street, Deptford. Arthur's father Charles was a 29 year old printer's compositor. His mother Clara was aged 24 , and he had a 4 month old sister Dorothy May. Also living at the address was a boarder, Louis Hawkins, also a printers compositor, and Kate Harwood, sister-in-law. Addey was Charles Henry's mother's maiden name.

By the 1901 census the family had moved to 134 Amersham Street, Deptford. Arthur had two more siblings, Olive Addey aged 4 and Cyril Harry aged 3 months.

Arthur married Hilda Alice Crisp, from Langley in Norfolk, in 1911 (GRO reference Mar 1911 Epsom 2a 19). There is a record of one child, Gordon D Adey-Jibb (GRO reference: Mar 1912 Epsom 2a 53).

In the 1911 census the 21 year old Arthur and his 26 year old wife Hilda were living at 165, Hook Road, Epsom. Arthur was working at a London County Council asylum as a steward's clerk.

Arthur attested at Epsom on 25 September 1914 aged 25 years and 2 months into the RAMC, with service number 36634. His stated occupation was as a clerk, but he was actually an assistant house steward at the Long Grove Asylum. Presumably it was because of this that he joined the RAMC. He was 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighed 147 lbs, had a chest measurement of 36 ½ inches with an expansion of 2 ½ inches. His complexion was sallow, eyes brown and his hair was black.

He rose from Private to Sergeant-major, and according to his medal card he was temporary quartermaster and honorary Lieutenant. Arthur went to France on 27 September 1915, was awarded the MSM, was mentioned in despatches, and received the 1915 star, British War medal and the Victory medal. His widow lived at 8, Court Farm Gardens, Epsom.

It appears that he was killed by shellfire. The book 'Britain's Last Tommies' by Richard Van Emden, on Page 270 has a reference to Lieutenant Quartermaster Addey-Jibb being killed by a shell whilst at an advanced dressing station in an old brewery. This was at the time of the German offensive on the Lys. The advanced dressing station was about to be overrun by the quickly advancing Germans. A Colonel was asking for volunteers to stay with the wounded and be taken prisoner when the shell struck. Arthur was not killed outright but died of his wounds shortly after.

Arthur is buried in Hondeghem Churchyard, a small village in France, with 8 other British soldiers.

EP LGH

Bernard Keith Johnson was born in 1895 (GRO reference: Jun 1895 Epsom 2a 18) to Robert and Ruth Johnson (nee Cross).

At the time of the 1891 census Bernard was yet to be born. His parents and older siblings lived at Woodcote Green, Epsom. His father was a 33 year old dairyman. His mother was 30. Sister Olive was 6, May was 4, and brother Robert was 2.

In 1901 the family lived in Woodcote Road. Father Robert still worked as a dairyman, but is shown as a journeyman. His sisters were working, Olive as a butchers assistant and May as a domestic nurse. Two more sisters had arrived, Gwendoline 9 and Freda 1.

I cannot find the family in the 1911 census.

Bernard served in the 8th Battalion East Surrey regiment which was in the 55th Brigade 18th Division. July 1 1916 saw the start of the battle of the Somme, dubbed 'The Big Push', which was intended to break through the German lines and deliver a knock out blow to the German Army. In that respect the attack failed as the lines were not broken, and only a relatively small amount of ground had been taken by the end of the battle some four months later. The cost in lives was huge. On the first day the British had some 20,000 men killed. The costliest day in the entire history of the British army.

Bernard's battalion attacked towards the small village of Montauban, which by noon they had reached. One of the officers attached to the 8th East Surreys was Captain Wilfred Percy Nevill. The young men of the battalion had never before been in battle and Captain Nevill realised that they would be under great stress and very apprehensive about what might happen to them in the coming battle. To help take their minds off the dangers ahead he bought four footballs, one for each of his platoons. The idea was that they would dribble the balls across no mans land, and he would give a prize for the first platoon to reach the German lines. The prize would never be claimed, as Captain Nevill was killed during the attack.

On 1 July 1916 six officers and 133 men from the 8th East Surreys were killed, including Bernard who is commemorated on pier 6B of the Thiepval memorial

The Epsom Advertiser dated 28 July 1916 printed the following:

LANCE-CORPORAL JOHNSON KILLED.-News was received this week by Mr and Mrs Johnson, of Woodcote, that their son, Lance-Corpl. B.K. Johnson, of the East Surrey Regt., has been killed in action. He was one of the earliest recruits from Epsom to join the Army; he was only 21 years of age. Lance-Corpl. Johnson was well known in the district as a capital footballer.

Bernard was awarded the 1914-1915 Star, the British War medal (BWM) and the Victory medal (VM). His medal card shows that when he was awarded the 1914-1915 Star he was a Lance Corporal, but a Private when he received the BWM and VM, suggesting that he was demoted at some point in his military career.

The St. Martin's Church Roll of Honour states that "BERNARD KEITH JOHNSON, was killed in action on the Somme on the 1st July 1916."

EP SM

Ernest Ralph Johnson was born in 1893 in Norton sub Hamdon, Somerset (GRO reference: Sep 1893 Yeovil 5c 402) to Herbert and Mercy Johnson (nee Grinter). He was baptised at St Mary's Church, Norton sub Hamdon on 20 August 1893.

Ernest Ralph was the eldest of eight children, the other seven being:

In the 1901 census Ernest appears under his second name Ralph. The family lived in Broadmead Lane, Norton sub Hamdon, and Ernest's father Herbert was a 32 year old stone sawyer. His mother Mercy was also shown as 32, although birth records suggest she was two years younger than Herbert.

In the 1911 census Ernest was a 19 year old domestic servant working as a footman in Norton sub Hamdon.

Ernest attested on 29 August 1914 at Epsom giving his age as a very precise 23 years and 30 days. This would mean he was born on 30 July 1891, however his birth was not registered until the September quarter of 1893. He was 5 feet 7¾ inches tall, weighed 146lbs and had a chest measurement of 36¼ inches with an expansion of 5¼ inches. He had a fair complexion, blue eyes, light brown hair, and four vaccination marks from infancy. His physical development was described as very good, and he worked as a hospital attendant at Horton Asylum. His religion was Church of England.

On 7 November 1914 at Bishop's Sutton, near Southampton, Ernest married Esme Frances Lilian Guy, and on 16 October 1915, their daughter Esme Florence Mercy Johnson was born (GRO reference: Dec 1915 Guy Alresford 2c 302).

Ernest was quickly promoted, to Lance Corporal on 15 February 1915,and by 10 December 1916 to Company Quartermaster Sergeant. His 'burnt' service papers are too damaged to retrieve any other information.

He served in the 7th Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps which was in the 41st Brigade, 14th Division, sailing from Folkestone to Boulogne on 19 May 1915. At the time of Ernest's death in 1917 the Battalion was fighting in the battle of Passchendaele. They held the line from the Menin Road to the Scherriabeek for 6 days in October, a distance of about 600 yards. The following is an extract from the Battalion War diary from 10 to 16 October 1917:

     The relief was carried out under considerable difficulty owing to heavy shell fire and the ignorance of the guides. One of our company commanders with his headquarters and a whole platoon had to spend a most uncomfortable night in Dumbarton Lakes.
     Dispositions. Bn. Held front from MENIN ROAD 28 J 21 D to SCHERRIABEEK. 4th Middlesex on our right, 7th RB on our left. Two companies in front line and two in support. On the 14th the 39th Div. came in on our right.
     The tour of 6 days was most unpleasant, communications were very difficult especially to the rear and the Menin Road which was the principle route was always liable to be heavily shelled. We were unlucky in having R.S.M. Oxley severely wounded and 3 C.Q.M.S. - Ellis, Stannard and Johnson -- killed in the dump. All these men were the oldest members of the Battalion and their loss was very much felt.
     A large number of men were sick in the line, largely owing to the bad condition of the trenches, and the impossibility of getting up thigh boots or hot food. We had nearly 70 cases of men sent to F.A. with Trench foot.
     There were more opportunities for sniping than we had ever had before as the Germans walked about openly at dawn and dusk. Our men thoroughly enjoyed themselves and counted for a large number.
     Our total casualties for the tour were 27 O.R. killed, 59 wounded or missing. The Bn. Was relieved by 5th Oxf and Bucks and moved to camp at Ridge Wood.

(NOTE: F.A. means Field Ambulance, a medical unit of around 100 men under a Lt. Colonel.)

The Soldiers CD states that 33 men died during the period 10 to 16 October 1917, 27 being killed in action and 6 dying of wounds. It is unusual for O.R. (other ranks) to be named, usually only officers would be named. The 3 C.Q.M.S. killed were most likely hit by the same shell. Ellis and Stannard being killed outright, and now commemorated on the Tyne Cot memorial to the missing. Gerald probably survived long enough to be taken back to the Casualty Clearing Station at Lijssenthoek, where he died from his wounds.

In a letter dated 12 February 1918 written to the officer in charge of records at Winchester, the War Office wrote on 'Effects -- Form 118A' that all of Ernest's effects and any medals he may be awarded should be sent to Mrs E.F.L. Johnson at Meadowcroft, The Dean, Alresford, Hants. On 15 February 1918 his effects were listed as follows, and sent to his widow:

• 1 fountain pen
• 1 watch
• 1 disc photos
• 1 photo case
• 1 cig case
• 1 knife
• 1 note book
• 1 purse
• 1 fob pouch
• 1 post officer savings book
• 2 5 mark notes
• 1 19ct gold ring

From 29 April 1918 Mrs Johnson was granted a War pension of 22 shillings and 6 pence for herself and I child. Later, she also received his plaque, scroll, 1915 Star, British War medal and Victory medal.

The following is a extract from the Alresford Parish Magazine dated November 1917:

And now the sad news has come within the last few days that C.Q.M.S. Ernest Ralph Johnson, K.R.R. has made the great sacrifice. It is, indeed, a terrible blow to Mrs. Guy and the young widow, her daughter, coming so soon after all the anxiety and suspense they have gone through of late. He was killed on the field of honour on October 16th, having been at the front since May, 1915; it is only a fortnight or so since he was home on leave, thoroughly enjoying his brief stay amongst those who were so near and dear to him. But they will bear their desolating sorrow and loss bravely, we know: it is what he would have wished. May all Christian hope and comfort be granted to them from the source that never fails.

Ernest is commemorated in the book "RECORD OF WAR SERVICE London County Council Staff 1914-1918" pages 78 and 198.

Ernest is buried in plot XXI. H. 6. Lijssenthoek Miitary Cemetery, Belgium, along with 10,753 of his comrades.

EP HWH

R.N., H.M.S. Murray. Died in UK on 4 November 1919. Buried in Epsom Cemetery. Aged 21 years. Son of Walter and Sarah Johnson. (Listed on the Ashley Road, Epsom and the St. Martin's, Epsom Memorials).

Tom Donovan Jolliffe was born in 1889 (GRO reference: Sep 1889 Epsom 2a 20) to Thomas and Elizabeth Ann Jolliffe (nee Reeve).

In the 1891 census the family lived at 2 Leith Cottage, Lintons Lane, Epsom. Tom's father, Thomas, was a 38 year old carpenter. His mother Elizabeth was also 38, and he had five older siblings, Edgar Thomas aged 12, Mary Helen aged 10, Harry Frederick aged 9, Daisy aged 6 and May aged 3.

Tom's two other siblings did not survive infancy. Grace Ethel was baptised on 5 December 1879, and buried on 13 December 1879, aged 7 weeks. Alice Rose was baptised on 28 April 1884, and buried on 14 May 1884, aged 5 weeks.

By 1901 the family lived at 18 Leith Road. Father Thomas was now described as a 48 year old joiner, and brother Harry as a 19 year old engine driver. Some time before August 1916 the family moved to 12, North View Villas, Ewell, possibly in 1909 after the death of Tom's father. He was buried in Epsom cemetery, plot F67A on 9 October 1909.

Tom was regular soldier, having joined the colours at Kingston on 12 April 1912, and signing on for 5 years with the colours and 7 on the reserve. He was 22 years and 10 months old, 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighed 130 lbs, had a chest measurement of 36½ inches with a 2½ inch expansion, and had perfect 6/6 vision in both eyes. His complexion was dark, his eyes were blue, his hair was black, he had tattoos on his right forearm, and three vaccination marks on his left arm. His pulse is recorded as 80. Before enlisting he had been a miller at Ewell mills. The Surrey Recruitment Register CD makes reference to 'R. Vallally W. Henderson, possibly employers at Ewell flour mills.

Tom's 'burnt' service papers have survived, and his attestation form tells us he had previously served as a Territorial with the 5th Battalion East Surrey Regiment.

Two types of conduct sheet have survived. His Regimental conduct sheet which has no entries, and his Company Conduct Sheet, which informs us that his religion was C of E, and that on 10 April 1914 he was granted a Good Conduct Badge and Proficiency Pay of 6d per day. He must have been a very good and sober soldier as there are no offences shown against him. He was also a first class shot.

His Army Form B. 2066 'Employment Sheet' tells that he was qualified as a signaller, and that his military character was very good. It also states that he was honest, sober, clean and hardworking. However, there was a slight blemish (perhaps only in the eyes of the early 20th century) on Tom's character. He did not marry, but on 1 July 1912 a magistrates order was issued requiring him to pay 4d per day to Miss Marian Wilson of 241, Vauxhall Bridge Road, towards the support of an illegitimate child he fathered, born on 20 December 1911. Did Tom join the Regular Army in the hope of evading his responsibility?

A brief history of Tom's service:

Depot, Kingston-Upon-Thames	10 April 1912 - 8 August 1912
Transfer to 1st Battalion, Kinsale, Ireland	9 August 1912 - 30 September 1913
King George V Hospital, Dublin. Sore throat	13 April 1913 - 18 April 1913
King George V Hospital, Dublin. Sore throat	23 April 1913 - 7 May 1913
Curragh. Sore throat	29 May 1913 - 4 June 1913
Transfer to 2nd Battalion, Dublin	30 September 1913 - 23 September 1913
India, Chaubattia	24 September 1913 - 15 November 1914
Inoculated against typhoid	27 November 1913
Good conduct badge	10 April 1914
Proficiency pay, 6d per day	10 April 1914
1st Class shot	10 May 1914
Transport ship Malda to Devonport	16 November 1914 - 23 December 1914
Devonport	23 December 1914
Winchester	24 December 1914
Embarked Southampton, s.s. Maidan, 6-30pm	18 January 1914
Le Havre, 85th Brigade, 28th Division	19 January 1915
Killed in Action	24 May 1915

On 24 May 1915 the Battalion were in trenches at Potijze, a mile or two east of Ypres. The following is an extract from the War Diary of 24 May:

About 3am the whole line held by the battalion was heavily gassed with asphyxiating gases and the right near the railway attacked. C Company on the right with two companies 8th Middlesex retired and no trace of the company (about 100 men) has yet been found (30.5.15). Enemy gained some trenches south of railway held by 3/ROYAL FUSILIERS. Enemy active on whole front but no further attack was made. Casualties. Other ranks killed 5 wounded 19 missing 157 suffering from gas poisoning 24. At dusk 3/Middlesex Regiment reinforced our right. Admitted to hospital suffering from gas Lieut O.M. James 2 Lieut L. Jones.

'Missing and wounded' is handwritten on Tom's 'Casualty Form - Active Service'. Typed underneath is 'To be regarded for official purposes as having died on or since 24 May 1915'. From the war diary extract quoted above, it seems likely that Tom was killed by poison gas. The 'Soldiers Died CD' shows 16 men from 2nd East Surreys killed in action on 24 May 1915.

The Army form, dated June 1919, detailing all Tom's living siblings, shows that two of his siblings, Harry and Daisy, had moved to Canterbury, New Zealand. Daisy having married Alfred Deadmarsh in 1906, and Harry having married Phoebe Deadmarsh in 1913. Edgar was living at 40, Middle Road, Epsom, Mary at 12, North View Villas, Ewell and May at East Hill House, Station Road, Epsom.

Tom was awarded the 1915 Star, the British War medal and the Victory medal.

The St Martin's Church Roll of Honour states that "TOM DONOVAN JOLLIFFE, after serving in the Territorial Force he joined the Regular Army in 1911. He was missing at Ypres and officially presumed killed in action on the 17th February 1915".

Tom's remains were never found, and he is commemorated on Panel 34 of the Menin Gate memorial.

EP SM

Archibald Frank Percival Jones was born in 1884 in Shepherds Bush (GRO reference: Sep 1884 Fulham 1a 247) to Frederick William and Annie Jane Jones (nee Preedy).

In the 1891 census Archibald was with his maternal grandparents, John and Mary Preedy at 123, Russell Road, Wimbledon. Grandfather John was a 68 year old tailor. Also living with the family John's sister-in- law Jane Jobson.

Ten years later in the 1901 census, Archibald appears with his widowed mother Annie J Jones, aged 42, and his 17 year old brother Frederick T who was a painter. Annie owned the grocers shop at 100 De Burgh Road Wimbledon, where Archibald worked as her assistant.

His whereabouts in the 1911 census is unknown but he was most likely abroad with the Army.

Archibald's widowed mother remarried in 1913 to Richard Priestly and they lived in South Street Epsom.

Archibald had been a regular soldier and after serving his time with the colours he became a reservist. On the outbreak of war he was recalled, and joined the 2nd Battalion South Lancashire Regiment, which was in the 7th Brigade, 3rd Division. The Division landed at Le Havre on 14 August 1914 and fought in the famous retreat from Mons. He is reported to have died of wounds on 7 September 1914 and is buried in Perreuse Chateau Franco British National Cemetery, about 38 milers east of Paris. The cemetery was used by French medical units throughout the First World War, the site having been given to the Government by the owner, Mme. Dumez. All the 150 Commonwealth burials of the First World War were brought in from the surrounding battlefields, so this would not have been Archibald's first resting place. Five men from the 2nd Battalion South Lancashire Regiment lost their lives on 7 September 1914.

De Ruvigny's Roll of Honour Part 3 has the simple entry "JONES, A.F.P., Private, No. 7876, 2nd Battn. The South Lancashire Regt.; served with the Expeditionary Force in France; died 7 Sept 1914."

Archibald was awarded the 1914 Star, British War medal and the Victory medal.

The St Martin's Church Roll of Honour states that "ARCHIBALD FRANK JONES, was an Army reservist and on the declaration of War he was recalled to the Colours. He was killed in action, in the retreat from Mons, on 7th September 1914."

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George Albert Jones was born in 1886 (GRO reference: Sep 1886 Guildford 2a 80) to George and Anna Jones (nee Mason).

In the 1891 census the family lived at the Horseshoe public house, London Road, Burpham, Guildford. George's father was a 'Brickmaker', and he had two brothers Percy 3 and Wilfred 1.

By the 1901 census they had moved to Gibraltar, Ewell. George' father was still a brickmaker, whilst George Albert was a 14 year old 'General Labourer' and 13 year old brother Percy was a 'House Boy'. There was now a daughter Dorothy aged 6, and another brother Bertram Arthur aged 2 (GRO reference: Dec 1898 Epsom 2a 26).

In 1909 there is a marriage recorded between George Albert Jones and Edith Annie Manning (GRO reference: Dec 1909 Willesden 3a 490). No children found.

Ewell Old Boys' Association member 1913-1914, living at Manor Cottage, West Street, Epsom.

George enlisted in Kingston as number 3296 Suffolk Regiment and was later number 266178 1st/6th Suffolk Regiment. I cannot find him in the Surrey Recruitment Register CD

The 1st/6th Suffolks never left the UK. However, but as he was previously No. 3296 in the Suffolks, he was probably wounded and transferred to the home based battalion.

George died on 19th May 1917 and is buried in St Mary's Churchyard, Ewell, NE part of old ground. The headstone is inscribed 'In loving memory of Percy William second son of George and Anna Jones ******* Eldest son of the above Dearly beloved husband of Edith Jones was called away *************** Aged 30 years Until the day breaks sleep.'

BH EW ES (Buried St Mary's)

Sidney Herbert Joseph was born in 1891 (GRO reference Mar 1889 Hambledon 2a 162) Frederick John and Mary Jane Joseph (nee Mills). Sidney's parents had married in 1876 in the Godstone registration district.

In the 1881 census before Sidney was born the family lived at 82, Barkworth Road, Camberwell. Sidney's father Frederick, was a 26 year old Baptist minister. His mother Mary was 24, and he had two siblings, Agnes aged 4 and Mary aged 2. Also living with them was Frederick's 61 year old widowed mother Mary Elizabeth.

By 1891 the family had moved to Star Cottage in Alfold, Surrey. Sidney's father was still a Baptist minister, but another three siblings had arrived, Ellen aged 10, Alice aged 7 and Frederick aged 4. Also living with them was Frederick's 38 year old sister Agnes.

In 1901 the family were still living at Star Cottage, and Sidney's father was still a Baptist minister. Another two siblings had arrived, Albert Edward aged 8 and Archibald aged 6.

I have been unable to find Sidney in the 1911 census, but his family, however were living at Bedford Lodge, Dormans, East Grinstead, and his father was still working as a Baptist minister.

Sidney was a member of the Epsom Brotherhood, a Christian organisation dedicated to the moral welfare of local people. All men, irrespective of creed, politics or social position were welcomed into the Brotherhood, which had charitable aims, and carried out various projects in cooperation with Epsom local authority.

Sidney married Annie Ruth Pickard on 24 March 1913 at the Baptist church, Epsom whilst they were living at 55, East Street. They had two children, Violet Ruth born 2 April 1914 and Sidney Archibald born 25 October 1916.

Sidney attested in Kingston on 11 September 1915 into the 4th Battalion East Surrey regiment, a training and depot battalion. He was 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighed 147 lbs, had a chest measurement of 37 ½ inches with an expansion of 4 ½ inches, and was aged 26. He worked as a clerk and lived at 55, East Street.

Whilst Sidney was on war service, wife Annie was paid a separation allowance of 21 shillings per week, plus an allotment of pay of 3 shillings and 6 pence per week, making a total of 24 shillings and 6 pence per week. During their separation she withdrew her allowance whilst living at various addresses. She moved between 188, Hook Road, Epsom, 34, Poynter Road, Hove, and Broyle Cottage, Broyle Lane, Ringmer, Sussex, possibly spending time with relatives.

Sidney was transferred to the 8th Battalion on 18 February 1916 and disembarked in France on the next day. The 8th Battalion was in the 55th Brigade, 18th Division. On 3 May 1917 the 18th Division attacked Chérisy, a small village about 6 miles south east of Arras. The attack started at 3-45am in pitch darkness, which caused a great amount of confusion as it was not possible to distinguish friend from foe. Neither was it possible for soldiers to stay with their own units, all becoming mixed together. Despite this the 8th East Surreys managed to capture the northern end of the village, and Olga Trench which was just over a mile east of Cherisy. Despite these early successes, German counter attacks regained all the territory taken and pushed the surviving East Surreys back to where they had started. The soldiers died CD tells us that 90 men from the 8th East Surreys were killed in action that day.

I believe that Sidney was one of those killed in action on 3 May, despite the CWGC, and Sidney's 'burnt' service papers both showing his date of death as 5 May 1917. His service papers have the following:

Wounded and missing. Death presumed by the War Office, on lapse of time having occurred on or since 5 May 1917. C.2 CAS. 2/493588/1. Dated 18-2-1918.

The 8th East Surrey war diary entry for 5 May reads:

BEAURAINS
The day was devoted to cleaning up arms and equipment etc. Companies held inspections of rifles, iron rations, Box Respirators etc. in the afternoon.

As there was no fighting on the 5th, and the Battalion was cleaning up in the relatively safe back area of Beaurains, I doubt Sidney was killed on the 5th. I believe that he was lost in action during the chaotic very early dawn attack of the 3rd. Presumably nobody actually saw him killed, and his body was never recovered. Some 9 months later the War Office accepted that he was dead and gave an arbitrary date of death which I believe was 2 days after it actually occurred.

Sidney is commemorated on the Arras Memorial to the missing.

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